What happened
On April 19, 2008, at approximately 21:40 UTC, an EMB-810C, registration PT-RMG, crashed into a sugarcane plantation near Batatais, Brazil. The flight originated from João Pinheiro, MG, with the intention of reaching Franca, SP, under night Visual Flight Rules (VFR).
During the flight, the pilot encountered adverse weather conditions, including turbulence and cumulonimbus clouds, near the destination. Consequently, the pilot decided to divert to Ribeirão Preto. While transitioning through the area, the pilot descended from 5,000 feet to 3,000 feet. While flying at a level altitude, the aircraft struck the terrain at an elevation of approximately 2,760 feet. The impact caused severe damage to the airframe, including the fuselage, nose, wings, and landing gear. The pilot and four passengers sustained light injuries.
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation focused on the pilot's decision-making and operational procedures during the diversion. Investigators examined the aircraft's maintenance records, noting that the annual inspection had expired. The investigation also reviewed the pilot's use of navigation aids and weather information.
Technical analysis of the impact revealed that the propeller blades were deformed backward, suggesting the engine was at low power or stopped at the moment of impact. Furthermore, the investigation scrutinized the use of the autopilot during the descent, finding that the pilot failed to verify if the altitude hold (ALT) mode was properly engaged.